Save The River has received the test results for Week 8 (8/22/12) of the Beach Watch monitoring program. All beaches sampled PASSED this week!

Week 8 Results (8-22-12)

Wilson Beach: PASS

Potter’s Beach: PASS

Frink Dock: PASS

Round Island: PASS

Lake of the Isles: PASS

Scenic View Park: PASS

About Beach Watch

The program provides a snapshot of water quality at popular swimming areas which are not monitored by other groups during peak recreational swimming season. Our goal is to ascertain whether there is a health risk to swimmers from E.coli in the water. E. coli is a type of bacteria found in the intestines of animals, including humans, which in some instances is linked to human health concerns.

There are many potential sources for E.coli bacteria in swimming areas, including: improper sewage disposal, agricultural run-off, bird and animal waste and various other environmental factors.

Although the results cannot be used to conclusively say that a location is safe for swimming, Save The River advises beach goers to practice safe swimming habits to reduce the likelihood of acquiring bacteria related illnesses, such as rashes or gastrointestinal problems. When swimming, a few simple steps should be followed: choose swimming sites with good water circulation, never swallow swimming water and wash hands after swimming and before eating. If you are very young, very old or have a compromised immune system you are more susceptible to acquiring bacteria related illnesses.

Questions?

If you have any questions, concerns or would like more information on our Beach Watch program, please stop by the office or call, 315-686-2010.